NHL 20 is getting a big new update this week that introduces a significant change surrounding player physics. Specifically, the “pivot” system is being updated in what could be a big way.

In the game as it stands today, players can pivot while controlling the puck as a means to slip around defenders, confuse them, and control the puck. However, players have discovered that the pivoting system can be abused to take it to a level that compromises the integrity of the game.

Those with advanced pivoting skills can, in essence, game the system to give themselves an advantage beyond what should be possible in a simulation game. In a blog post, EA acknowledged that the steps its taking to address the matter are “a fine line” because some of the NHL’s best players can in fact perform advanced-level pivots while retaining control of the puck.

With that in mind, the December 5 update to NHL 20 will slow down the skating animation when players are using a pivot move. You can see examples of the the pivot-spamming and changes in action in the videos posted on EA’s website and below.

NHL 20 Pivot-Spamming

NHL 20 Pivot Speed Changes

If these changes aren’t enough, EA said it might consider creating scenarios where players lose the puck completely while performing a pivot at high speeds. This makes sense practically, as any hockey player will tell you it is very difficult to perform advanced moves at high speeds.

NHL 20 Pivot Puck Loss

“We believe these are agreed upon, community friendly changes that will benefit gameplay without shaking things up too drastically,” EA said.